Press Box

USOC is urged to take action

September 16, 2008|By Philip Hersh

As they accepted an apology from the U.S. Olympic Committee, the four Olympic track cyclists reprimanded for wearing anti-pollution masks upon their Aug. 5 arrival at the Beijing airport asked the USOC to punish staff members for their behavior in handling the issue.

Sarah Hammer said "Not only did [Kelly Skinner and Steve Roush] show us absolutely no respect in our time of dire need, but they openly harassed and belittled us."

-- Philip Hersh

*Alberto Contador kept a 1:17 Spanish Vuelta lead over Levi Leipheimer of the U.S. after the 15th stage.